We
are going to fold the fabric like double-folded bias tape. Lengthwise fold the
raw edges towards the middle and press. Now fold inwards again and press.
Clutch closure:: Fold the strips in half lengthwise. Using something round, place it on the raw edge corner. Trace the round item to create the rounded corners. Cut off the excess fabric. Make sure you do this to both pieces.
Place
these two pieces with the right sides together and stitch all the way around leaving an
opening on one side wide enough to turn the piece to the right side.
Clip
into the rounded seams.
Turn
to the right side and press.
If
you want to add your label to the clutch piece add it now.
Add
the snap.
The
head/female of the snap should be on the outside [right side] of the rounded end 1”
from the edge in the center.
The male end of the snap should be on the straight end 1” from the edge in the
center. Make sure that the male snap is on the outside [right side].
Test
the placement to make sure the snaps are facing the right direction to be able
to close.
We
are adding French seams to this unlined tote. With the right side facing out
and the wrong side facing each other. Stitch the sides closed with a ¼” seam and
press.
Turn
the bag inside out, the wrong side facing you, and stitch with a ½” seam.
Now turn the bag to the right side and press.
Make sure the corners are nice and pointy.
Now we need to hem the top. Fold it down ¼”
press and then fold down 1” and press. Stitch the hem.
Attaching the clutch to the tote:: Measure up 10” from the bottom of the clutch piece and draw a line across the width.
Flip the bag over so the clutch piece is on the top. Now peel back the clutch piece so you can add the double-sided tape to the underside. Once you have added the tape to all sides, flip it back on the bag and press down with your hands to make sure the tape has fused the clutch to the bag. This will allow you to stitch this piece to the bag without having to use pins.
2. Lay
the handles flat.
3. Fold
one side inward, the folded edge should meet with the clutch edge.
4. Fold
the other side inward over the side.
5. Fold
the tote in half.
6. Fold
it in half again.
7. Fold
down the top & snap closed.
I love it!! Will definitely be making a few of these this summer. A lot of stores here are going bagless and selling reusable bags. The compact design is what got my attention. Thanks for posting this!
ReplyDeleteHi Robin, Yeah I see that happening all over. I love the fact that it looks like a clutch or wallet! You can even make a more compact version of this project with different measurements and thinner fabrics.
DeleteThanks for the tute Michelle! I can't tag you yet, but I pinned it because it would be so handy when I leave my reusable bags at home yet again. (In New York State we have no single use plastic bags, and paper bags are 5 cents by law.)
ReplyDeleteAND, I just have to say that your glasses are fabulous!
Hey Lodi!!! My daughter bet me that the new tote wasn't going to make it into my car....but today when I ran to the post office I put my new tote with my packages so I wouldn't forget it. It's in the car!! #winning Oh and the glasses are fun aren't they? Thank you for stopping by the blog!
DeleteSuch a thorough tutorial. Thanks for taking the time to post this.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, that's what we are here for! Thanks so much for stopping by.
DeleteNice totes and I love the fabric choices also ... FIESTA :)
ReplyDeleteRight! I love this fabric. it's not thick which is what you need for this project.
DeleteGreat tutorial, thanks! And a very stylish bag too. I’ll be trying this one for sure.
ReplyDeleteIt's too easy for you not to try it!!! Thanks for stopping by.
DeleteThanks for a great tutorial.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Delete